Walcott Admits To Diving

09 January 2011 09:50

Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has apologised to fans and both managers after diving to try to win a penalty during the 1-1 draw with FA Cup opponents Leeds United. Walcott's 'effort' was denied by the match officials, though he did win a legitimate penalty for Arsenal's late equaliser. Walcott issued a statement apologising for his actions. The 21-year-old said on the club's official website: "I want to apologise to the managers because I actually dived. I was trying to win the penalty. I said to one of their players 'would you have done it?' and he said he probably would have. "I am not the sort of player to do it, but I own up to it and apologise. It is something I don't want to see in my game." Walcott continued: "I have heard some players say 'if there is a slight touch, go down' and it can work both ways. "It was one of those things. I am not happy with myself for doing that, but I am happy that we got the draw. "I had a little joke with the referee afterwards saying 'that was my first dive, can you tell?' I don't have to own up to it and I can't speak for other players, but I have just expressed how I feel. I hope people respect that."